Nigerian Correctional Service Rejects Claims of Inadequate Menstrual Care for Female Inmates
The Federal Capital Territory Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has issued a firm rebuttal against allegations that female inmates at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Suleja are being denied sanitary pads and essential menstrual hygiene items.
In an official statement released on Sunday, Sampson Duza, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, characterized these reports as “false, misleading, and completely detached from the reality on ground.”
Systematic Provision of Hygiene Supplies
The correctional service maintains that it provides comprehensive menstrual care for female detainees, including monthly distribution of sanitary pads and hygiene kits at no cost to inmates. According to the statement, this distribution follows documented procedures in welfare registers, aligning with international correctional standards.
“Custodial centres have designated healthcare units staffed with qualified nurses and doctors who attend to the medical needs of female inmates, including menstrual-related issues.
“Consultations, medications, and referrals to nearby hospitals when necessary, are offered free of charge”, the statement read.
Collaborative Support Network
The Command highlighted its ongoing partnerships with development organizations, civil society groups, and faith-based entities that regularly contribute sanitary products and conduct menstrual hygiene education programs.
A recent donation from the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) was cited as evidence of these productive collaborations, demonstrating external validation of the facility’s hygiene protocols.
Commitment to International Standards
Reaffirming its operational philosophy, the FCT Command emphasized that its practices adhere to the Nigerian Constitution, the Nelson Mandela Rules, and the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners.
“The welfare and dignity of inmates remain at the core of our mandate. We will continue to uphold the highest standards of care and transparency in all our custodial practices”, the Command stated.
This response comes amid growing global attention to menstrual equity in correctional facilities, where access to hygiene products represents both a health necessity and fundamental human right.
Source: BusinessDay NG